Each labor experience is unique. Knowledge, relaxation, a supportive partner and a positive attitude can help you manage the discomfort of labor and increase your sense of control.

For many women, the most valuable tool is their partner or labor support person.

• Your support person can help you find comfortable positions, breathe with you to keep you focused, rub your back or do stroke massage to help you relax.
• Many partners are experiencing childbirth for the first time too, so we recommend you prepare together. Attending childbirth education classes, reading books and going to prenatal checkups with you can help your partner learn how to be an active labor support.
• You could choose to have a labor support companion or a doula. Having a woman trained in methods to support you and your partner during labor has been found to reduce the need for pain medication.